President Hakainde Hichilema says Zambia remains committed to deepening bilateral relations with China for economic and social development.
President Hichilema states that the advancement of the relationship with China to a comprehensive, strategic and cooperative partnership in recent years, has resulted in investment in areas such as mining and energy.
The media reports that speaking when he held bilateral talks with the visiting Chinese Premier, Li Qiang, at State House in Lusaka today, President Hichilema indicated that the two countries are on a progressive path curved by the founding fathers.
He stated that as the world is going through transformation, China is proving its stability and consistency as a friend of Zambia.
The Head of State added that the enduring relationship between the two countries is based on common interest that will offer greater opportunities for Zambians such as jobs and businesses.
“Through the years, Zambia and China have done a lot in-terms of people to people, government to government and cooperation at an international level.
He was happy that China has opened its domestic market to Zambian goods, adding the need to focus some of the investments in areas that will allow partnerships to the two countries to support, and supply the market.
And, President Hichilema said the signing of the commencement to implement the TAZARA railway line rehabilitation project will improve the integrity, and capability of the railway line as an economic corridor.
The President noted that Zambia is well positioned to facilitate trade for domestic, regional and external markets.
He also hailed China for supporting Zambia’s debt restructuring journey that has progressed.
Mr Li also said his country China, would like to further cement its political and mutual trust with Zambia to firmly support each other’s core interests and major concerns.
The Premier added that China wants to work with Zambia to advance the cause of modernisation and build an even stronger China-Zambia community with a shared future.
Mr Li further hailed President Hichilema’s leadership, stating that Zambia has since pursued reforms that have seen economic growth and achieving significant outcomes.
“Under President Hichilema’s leadership, Zambia has pursued reforms that have grown the economy, achieving significant outcomes. China is very happy for Zambia and we would like to congratulate the country,” Premier Li stated.
Progress!